Custom sandals instead of mass production, craftsmanship instead of hustle — for Peter and Barbara, a visit to the Sandalenwerkstatt is not a purchase but a ritual. In conversation, they tell us why they regularly travel to Freiburg, what good shoes mean to them — and why the Sandalenwerkstatt is more than just a shop.
Ninth visit — ninth pair of shoes: when custom sandals made from sustainable leather become a passion
"We are here for the ninth time now — and it is also my ninth pair of shoes," Barbara tells us. Together with her husband, she regularly travels from Munich to Freiburg — each time with the goal of buying another pair of custom-made sandals.
"Originally I only knew one model. But then a new one was added with every visit. We have never gone home without placing a new order," she laughs.
Peter adds with a smile: "I now have eleven pairs. One of them is a pair of custom-made clogs. It is simply a passion. You cannot justify it economically, because nobody needs that many. But one or two pairs — that really is a worthwhile investment."
What makes these sandals so special
Both agree: these shoes are different — not just in design, but above all in how they feel to wear.
"The leather is high-quality and worked in a single piece — nothing is stitched, not even the straps. And the best part: they are individually made to measure. At first they are a bit stiff, but once broken in, they fit perfectly. No blisters, no pressure points — just comfortable," Peter explains.
Walks of many kilometres? No problem.
"In summer there are no other shoes for us. Whether it is walks, strolling through town, or travelling — we only wear our sandals," Barbara reveals with a little smile.
Not "because you have to" but "because you want to"
For the two of them, owning good shoes is not a necessity but a conscious choice.
Peter shares openly: "I have had both feet operated on — they were essentially sawn apart and put back together. That is why I can hardly find off-the-shelf shoes that fit. Custom shoes are a piece of quality of life for me. But honestly, it has become more than that. It is a desire — a need. Just as others need a car, I need good shoes."
And the car? They sold it long ago. Instead, they opt for train travel and mindful consumption. "We travel with the Deutschlandticket, that is enough. And the money we save leaves more for shoes."
Why the Sandalenwerkstatt in particular?
"It could have been another workshop," Peter admits. "We just called somewhere at the time — and ended up with Herr Tsukinowa. A real stroke of luck."
What convinced them: the philosophy of the workshop.
"The founders said: forget about money, forget about volume. They wanted to create something good, something genuine. And you can feel it. It is passion — not industry."
Barbara confesses: "I was never really a sandal person before. But when I saw the models from the Sandalenwerkstatt, it was love at first sight. Since then, I have not looked at any other sandals. None of them compare."
Shoe care: a small ritual with a big effect
"We take good care of our sandals — and it shows," Peter says proudly. "Once a year, wipe them down with a damp cloth, a little leather grease — that is all it takes."
Even the workshop owner was impressed by the condition of the older models they had brought in for re-soling. "When you have high-quality shoes, you enjoy taking care of them. It is like a good bicycle or a musical instrument."
Workshops? Better to leave it to the professionals
The Sandalenwerkstatt regularly offers workshops where customers can craft their own sandals, belts, or bags. But for Peter and Barbara, that is not their thing:
"I simply do not have the time. And I know I would not get it as beautiful. I think it is wonderful that the option exists — but I would rather come here, get advice, and enjoy the finished product," says Barbara.
Peter sees it similarly: "I am not a DIY type. I want it done well — and that is what professionals are for. I can do many things — but building shoes is not one of them."
A philosophy of life — in a nutshell
In the end, for Peter and Barbara it is not just about shoes — it is about attitude, quality, and values.
"I pay attention to what I buy — I am not a fan of mass consumption. There are only a handful of shops that genuinely interest me. The Sandalenwerkstatt is one of them," Peter explains.
And finally, he shares a saying from his grandmother:
"'If you want to know someone's character, look at their shoes. Shoes may be old, they may look worn — but they should be well cared for. Those who do not look after their shoes are often careless in other areas of life too.'"
Conclusion: custom sandals — more than just shoes
For Peter and Barbara, the Sandalenwerkstatt is a place where craftsmanship, design, and individuality come together. What is created here are not off-the-shelf products but personal favourites that accompany you for years.
Custom-made sandals, individually fitted
High-quality leather from the region
A sustainable concept, far from throwaway culture
Comfort and design, ideal even for those with fit issues
Authentic craftsmanship with genuine passion
